Choosing implant or Diep flap reconstruction

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Ja9831
Ja9831 Member Posts: 44
edited May 2019 in Surgery - Before, During, and After

Hi ladies,

Need some help with info or personal opinions on straight to implants or Diep flap for nipple sparing mastectomy. My concern is the nipple. Has anyone had complications with sparing the nipple with Diep flap. And i know it’s big difference between both procedures but will going to an implant be more appealing with regards to the nipple?

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  • Ladyofthelake
    Ladyofthelake Member Posts: 45
    edited May 2019

    I had a nipple sparing straight to implant mastectomy, so can't really comment on the Diep flap. However I can tell you that there's still the risk of losing a nipple due to insufficient blood supply after surgery. My right nipple turned purple, then black two days post surgery. Luckily it was only the top layer, which eventually scabbed over and then peeled off. They won't have any feeling, and don't react to stimuli any more. They just sit there, but I'm grateful I at least still have them. Hope this helps.

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  • Ja9831
    Ja9831 Member Posts: 44
    edited May 2019

    thank you! It does help I’m having my surgery in June. Mastectomy to expanders and then later deciding which one I want to do. I’ll decide later on, but want to get opinions and hear what other women have done so thank you

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  • MaryScout
    MaryScout Member Posts: 38
    edited May 2019

    I just had a PBMX with immediate Diep flap 5 days ago. It was nipple sparing. I couldn't be more pleased. My boobs are soft and warm and feel like they are part of my body. My nipples are numb like LadyoftheLake's, but it does seem like they become erect sometimes and not others, so I honestly don't know how this will evolve. My surgeon said it would remain numb, so I don't have a lot of expectations there. But otherwise, I'm really happy with how this turned out! Best of luck with your decision!

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  • Meow13
    Meow13 Member Posts: 4,859
    edited May 2019

    Maryscout, I had my diep 7 years ago. I still find that feeling is coming back even now.

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